Today’s radio choice Charlotte Runcie

Desert Island Discs

RADIO 4, 11AM

The American cellist Yo-Yo Ma is Lauren Laverne’s castaway this week on Desert Island Discs, choosing the eight favourite tracks, book and luxury item that he would take with him away to an isolated tropical paradise.

Musicians are always particularly engaging castaways; how do they narrow down their life in music to a choice of just eight pieces? Yo-Yo Ma’s career extends beyond music, too, having collaborated in the design of the Bach-inspired music garden in Toronto, and been a UN Peace Ambassador.

Parky: My Kind of Jazz with Sir Michael Parkinson

JAZZ FM, 9PM

This evening there begins on Jazz FM a new six-part series in which the broadcaster Michael Parkinson shares his favourite jazz artists and records from his collection.

He reflects on the jazz stars that he has interviewed over the years and tells stories of where he first heard his most-loved songs. Tonight, the focus is on interviews and performances with the drummer and bandleader Buddy Rich, who gave his final interview to Parkinson just two weeks before he died.